November 20, 2025
Kenya has opened a new chapter in its floriculture story, sending Petunia and Calibrachoa plants to the European Union for the very first time. Historically, Kenya was unable to export these plants to the EU because the Solanaceae family also includes staple crops such as potatoes, tomatoes, and capsicum, which are economically significant within the Union and deemed vulnerable to virus diseases. Following persistent advocacy and compliance efforts, EU Regulation 2025/1082, issued in June 2024, finally approved Kenya to export unrooted Petunia and Calibrachoa cuttings and their hybrids to all EU member states.
Earlier this month (November 2025), Kenya celebrated the successful shipment of its first consignment, with Savanna Flowers PLC, located along Moi South Lake Road in Naivasha, Nakuru County, leading the way. Petunia and Calibrachoa are highly prized ornamental plants, valued for their vibrant flowers, drought tolerance, and ease of cultivation. They are widely used in gardens, landscapes, homes, offices, and public spaces across temperate regions, including the EU, Japan, Russia, and North America.
Prof. Theophilus Mutui, Managing Director of the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS), visited the facility during this milestone export. He reaffirmed KEPHIS’ commitment to supporting producers in meeting the EU’s strict phytosanitary requirements. “We will continue conducting regular inspections, certification processes, and advanced laboratory diagnostics to ensure compliance and safeguard long-term market access,” he said.
Industry analysts expect this development to boost Kenya’s horticultural export earnings, expand production capacity, create employment, and strengthen the country’s position in the global floriculture market.